This week we asked our panel of readers what they think of the Government’s plans to introduce a 5p charge on plastic shopping bags

Our opinion piece features a panel of local people who debate current topics. To join the panel or suggest a topic, email bracknelleditorial@trinitymirror.com

This week we asked our panel of readers what they think of the Government’s plans to introduce a 5p charge on plastic shopping bags after the 2015 election, with the proceeds going to charities.

Peter Smith, Bracknell Chamber Council President for Thames Valley Chamber: “As someone who sometimes forgets the bags and then has to drop back on the supermarket carriers, this could be a costly exercise.

“Then again it will also provide a stronger reminder to make more effort to remember them, especially as when this happens we sometimes buy the re-usable bags and now have a very tidy stock. Some people will continue to use the bags and accept the cost as a minor issue, which will ensure an increased benefit for the charities which can only be good.

"As we never actually throw the bags away, but always use them for lots of other things I wonder what we will do as an alternative. Perhaps I will forget the bags often enough to provide a sufficient supply. Only time will tell but this must be another plus for the environment as wherever it has been introduced it has resulted in a big drop in usage.”

Hazel Kent, a former Bracknell Market trader: “I can’t see what the problem is. In the 70s when I was growing up, I remember Tesco charging 1p for a bag. If we are stupid enough to forget to take a bag with us then we shouldn’t moan about having to pay.”

Jonathan Greenyer, an artist from Winkfield: “I have made a concerted effort to go shopping with reusable shopping bags. I keep them in the car. Or carry them to the shop.

“I don’t see why I should pay for other people’s laziness, for people who can’t be bothered to bring their own shopping bags. Every free bag given away is a cost to the store and a cost they pass on.

"I have watched in amazement in supermarkets as some people’s weekly shop is placed in dozens of bags with just one or two items per carrier. Maybe they use the bags at home as free bin-bags, again I am indirectly paying for that free bin-bag. For environmental, and cost purposes all plastic bags should be charged for.”